Alentejo Mastiff Complete Breed Guide

The Alentejo Mastiff is a confident, independent thinker that can be a challenge to own. They were bred as watchdogs for people and livestock, but are more protective than aggressive. Alentejo Mastiffs adore their families and always want love and attention.

The Alentejo Mastiff is a dog of many names. In addition to their AKC name, they are sometimes called the Raferio do Alentejo or Portuguese Watchdog. Although the Alentejo Mastiff is loving toward its family, they are not a dog for families unaccustomed to four-legged friends. They are strong-minded and independent, but are also very sensitive. Alentejo Mastiffs were originally bred to protect people and livestock,which makes them excellent watchdogs. They are more protectors than attackers, and usually aren’t overly aggressive - even though their deep bark occasionally suggests otherwise.

Lifestyle & Living Conditions

Alentejo Mastiffs are happiest living in a home where they have a large, securely fenced-in yard to play in. The fence will keep them from running off and/or intimidating any strangers that walk past your yard. They should have access to your house, but they can adapt to both indoor and outdoor life. Alentejo Mastiffs are very loving with children and will get along with most other animals that they are raised around. For them, it’s all about exposure to different situations when they are still young.

Exercise & Activity

If you’ve got livestock you want to protect, the Alentejo Mastiff will be happy to take the job. They are natural protectors and take pride in the work they were bred to do. If you don’t have an everyday job for them, a daily walk or jog will be prove sufficient. Alentejo Mastiffs don’t need an excessive amount of exercise, but they definitely need to get outside and play every day.

Alentejo Mastiffs tend to mature slowly and can be very wary of strangers and new situations. In order to grow up to be well-adjusted, they require extensive socialization as puppies. Alentejo Mastiffs can be stubborn, but they are also very sensitive, which means you’ll need to train them firmly but gently. They tend to want to dominate, so they'll need a lot of attention and love to overcome this inherent trait.

The Coat of an Alentejo Mastiff sheds twice a year, but otherwise does not require a lot of attention. A weekly or bi-weekly brushing during seasons when they are not shedding will be perfect. During their shedding season, you will want to brush their coat more often to prevent hair from piling up around your home.